The FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 continues with another highly anticipated knockout clash as Brazil take on Norway on 6 July 2026 at 4:00 AM (Malaysia Time) at MetLife Stadium.
With a place in the quarter-finals at stake, fans can expect an intense battle between two in-form sides. The spotlight will be on Brazil’s attacking star Vinicius Junior, who has been one of the tournament’s standout performers, while Norway will once again rely on the clinical finishing of Erling Haaland.
Brazil Team News
Brazil will have to cope without Raphinha, who has been ruled out of the match. Meanwhile, there are still question marks over the fitness of Lucas Paquetá and Casemiro.
Paquetá was forced off during the first half of Brazil’s previous match against Japan, while Casemiro was substituted before Gabriel Martinelli scored the decisive goal. Although both players are progressing in their recovery, Brazil’s coaching staff are expected to assess their condition before making a final decision.
If Paquetá is unavailable, Danilo Santos is expected to start in midfield. Head coach Carlo Ancelotti is likely to continue with his trusted 4-3-3 formation, which has delivered strong performances throughout the tournament.
Brazil’s biggest attacking threat remains Vinicius Junior, who has already recorded four goals and one assist in the competition. His pace, creativity, and finishing ability will be crucial against Norway’s disciplined defence.
Up front, Matheus Cunha will be aiming to add to his tally after remaining on three goals following his substitution in the previous match.
Norway Team News
Norway enter the knockout stage with confidence, thanks largely to the outstanding form of Erling Haaland.
The prolific striker has scored five goals during the tournament, putting him just one goal behind the current Golden Boot leaders. Remarkably, Haaland has been responsible for half of Norway’s 10 goals, highlighting his importance to the team’s attacking success.
Defensively, Norway continue to monitor the fitness of Julian Ryerson, who has not featured since suffering an early injury against Senegal. Although he is reportedly close to returning, he is not expected to be ready for this Round of 16 encounter.
With captain Martin Ødegaard controlling the midfield and Haaland leading the attack, Norway will be hoping to produce another memorable performance against one of the tournament favourites.
Predicted Lineups
Brazil (4-3-3): Alisson; Danilo, Marquinhos, Gabriel, Douglas Santos; Bruno Guimarães, Casemiro, Danilo Santos; Rayan, Matheus Cunha, Vinicius Junior.
Norway (4-3-3): Nyland; Pedersen, Ajer, Heggem, Wolfe; Martin Ødegaard, Sander Berge, Patrick Berg; Alexander Sørloth, Erling Haaland, Antonio Nusa.
Match Prediction
Brazil possess greater depth, experience, and attacking quality, but Norway have shown throughout the tournament that they are capable of competing with the world’s best teams. Haaland’s goalscoring form means Brazil cannot afford any defensive lapses, while Vinicius Junior has the ability to change the game with a single moment of brilliance.
Predicted Score: Brazil 2-1 Norway
This promises to be one of the most entertaining Round of 16 fixtures, with both teams expected to create plenty of scoring opportunities.
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